Amateur Orchestras - London (inside the M25)

Orchestra	Conductor Leader	Rehearsal Venue/Times	Contact	Notes
Adhoc Humanitarians’ Orchestra	Levon Parikian and Joseph Wolfe Tara Persaud	St Augustine’s Church, 117 Queen's Gate, London SW7, in the week before a Thursday concert	Eleanor Merton +44 (0)20 8880 3807 / +44 (0)7770 376701	The aim of the orchestra is to play highly satisfying, top-notch concerts to raise money for small scale, international humanitarian projects. The band is made up of top amateurs, semi and full pros, no-one is paid
All Saints Concert Band	Robert Mason and Brian Cox	Monday evenings from 8pm - 10.15pm in Upper Norwood SE19	Sarah Prior	Please contact us to find out about current vacancies.
The Amadeus Chorus and Orchestra	Philip Mackenzie	Meets three times a year for intensive sessions.		Training orchestra for music students
Angel Orchestra	Peter Fender Abigail Dance	Wednesdays at 7.30pm in St. Silas with All Saints, Rising Hill St.(off Penton Street) N1	Kieron Broadhead 07506 736126	We are a friendly amateur orchestra being led by professional conductor and leader. We currently welcome interest from all instruments but particularly strings and have vacancies for the following: Principal 2nd Violin, Principal Bass, Principle Oboe, 2nd Clarinet and Bassoon. We perform 3 concerts a year and rehearsals take the form of sectionals alongside full orchestral rehearsals.
The Ashford Baroque Ensemble	Philip Buckmaster	St Matthew's Church, Church Road, Ashford, Middx. Fortnightly on Monday evenings	Philip Buckmaster 020 8751 5315	Enthusiastic players wanted! Modern instruments accepted. We play music from c.1575-c.1775. Grade 8+ standard. Please visit our web site for more details and sound clips.
Ashford Orchestra	Peter Legge	Tuesdays in term time, 7.30 to 9pm at St Matthew's Church, Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex	Tony Rogers (Treasurer) Janet Husband (Secretary) 01784 241027.	Players of all standards welcome, especially string players. Ideal for newcomers to orchestral playing.
Barnes Concert Band	Wayne Hopla	Barnes Library, Castlenau, Barnes, every Tuesday 7.30 - 9.30	Kieran Forsyth	We are Always on the lookout for new talent. The band currently has vacancies for Clarinet, Horn, Tuba, String Bass and Percussion, ideally of grade 7 standard.
The Barnet Band		Wednesday evening between 7:45 and 10:00pm at Queen Elizabeth School, Queens Road, Barnet.	Ian Merryweather 020 8347-9208	A community Wind Band who meet and play in the Barnet area. Playing enquiries always welcome.
The Barnet Symphony Orchestra	Martin Loveday Philip Gibson	Hendon School, Golders Rise, NW4 19:45 - 22:00 Mondays	Paul McLoughlin	All prospective membership enquiries welcome
Beckenham Concert Band	John Hargreaves	Tuesdays 8 -10 pm St Barnabas Church Hall, Oakhill Road, Beckenham.	Philip Emery 020 8402-1318	A friendly band performing regularly in South London and the South Coast. All players welcome, particularly Horns, Tubas, Bassoon, Drums and percussion.
Belsize Baroque	Various guest directors		Susan Cooksley 07711 666270	We play on period instruments , and perform three concerts a year as well as have three workshops with leading baroque specialists evey year. Players don't necessarily need to be hugely experienced in baroque playing, but do need to be of a high standard. We welcome new players.
Blackfriars Sinfonia	Kevin Danaher	Christ Church Hall, 27 Blackfriars Road, SE1 Tuesdays 7.00pm - 9.00pm.	David Moore / Kevin Danaher 0208-6533625	A Rehearsal Orchestra. New programme each week. Good sight reading practice! All enquiries welcome particularly strings. Access to own library of over 400 works, ranging from light to classical; also available to hire. Easy access from City & West End - near Southwark Jubilee line station.
Blackheath Halls Orchestra	Leigh O'Hara Caroline Davis	Project based. Contact organisers for details	Rose Ballantyne	Particularly looking for strings, low brass, timpani.
The Bloomsbury Chamber Orchestra	Michael Turner Alison Dods	Moorfield Eye Hospital, City Road EC1 Sunday day times.		Some vacancies for string players, Grade8+ (or equivalent)
Bloomsbury Woodwind Ensemble	Shea Lolin Janet Marsh	Tuesday evenings, St Pancras Church, Euston Road, NW1 2BA	Shea Lolin	We welcome players of any woodwind instrument. No audition. Our aim is to provide a friendly relaxed group for adults to make music and improve their playing. We put on concerts at least twice a year, generally for charities and community events. We are a player-run group with a professional musical director.
The Brent Symphony Orchestra	Levon Parikian Adrian Charlesworth	Wednesday evenings at St James Church, Sheriff Rd, West Hampstead, NW6 2AP, 19:30–21:30.	Via website or 07879 247824	A friendly and sociable full-size symphony orchestra, now in our 98th season. Besides 3 concerts per season we also rehearse challenging and varied repertoire. Vacancies for tuba and strings in all sections. As we have a limited number of rehearsals per concert, new players must be grade 8+ standard with previous orchestral experience and good sight-reading skills.
Bromley Concert Band	Martin Gibbs	Friday evenings from 8pm to 10pm in the Lower Church Hall of the Good Shepherd Church, Moorside Road	Natalie Walsh 07789483303	We are currently looking for new players, particularly oboe, euphonium and clarinet. Please contact the band secretary if you are interested in joining.
Bromley Symphony Orchestra	Adrian Brown Bernard Brook	St. George’s School Bickley, Mondays 7:30 - 9:45pm	Roy Banks 020 8402 0889.	One of the oldest and most distinguished non-professional orchestras in the country. Since its foundation after the First World War, the BSO has earned a high reputation for concerts of professional standard. It has worked with many internationally famous musicians, including Sir Adrian Boult, Norman Del Mar, Paul Tortelier, Ralph Holmes, Hugh Bean, Emma Johnson and Leslie Howard. The Orchestra welcomes applications from prospective new members.
Brunel University Chamber Orchestra	Michael Sanderson Genevieve Haughey	Monday evenings, 7.30-9.30pm Recital Room, Lecture Centre, Brunel University, Cleveland Road, Uxbridge	Jay Wilkinson /Karen Lamb 01895 266074	Friendly University-based orchestra welcomes new members, particularly strings and lower woodwind. 4 concerts each year with wide repertoire.
The Bushey Symphony Orchestra	George Vass Richard Spenceley	Tuesdays 19:45-22:00 Bushey Hall School, London Rd, Bushey, Herts	Mike Brien	The Bushey Symphony Orchestra, a highly regarded part of the local community currently celebrating its thirtieth year, gives a minimum of five concerts per season with a wide variety of repertoire from the baroque to the present day. Some vacancies exist in the violin, viola and cello sections, and we are currently looking for a second flute doubling piccolo. Grade 8 upwards please
The Camden Chamber Orchestra	Lev Parikian, Guy Hopkins John Crawford	Tuesday evenings, Camden Square, NW1	John Broad, 020-7267-3450	A friendly orchestra which performs three major concerts a year. Please refer to the orchestra website for current vacancies, as they do arise from time to time. We don't hold auditions but invite new players to join us for an informal trial period.
The Cannons Scholars	John Andrews Various		John Andrews 020 8980 2623	Small and friendly baroque orchestra (on modern instruments) meeting three or four times a year for intensive rehearsals and concerts in central London, often of baroque operas and theatrical works using professional singers. Interest rather than experience in baroque playing a necessity. Players should be at least Grade 8. All enquiries welcome.
The Central Band of The Royal British Legion	Captain David Cole	Norbury Royal British Legion Club Every Wednesday evening 7:45pm - 10pm	Secretary, Caroline Docherty 020 8646 6066 / 07977 523114	Always welcoming new players of a high standard, especially trumpet/cornet players. Need not be ex forces. Many engagements throughout the year including Fairfield Hall, Croydon, Sittingbourne, Gravesend, Eastbourne Bandstand for a week, Picnic Concert at Fort Nelson and Festival of Remembrance at St Paul’s Cathedral each year.
The Chamber Orchestra	Nick Coote Anna Ritchie	Exmouth Market Centre, 24 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QE, Wednesday. Sectionals 6.15-7.45pm Full Orchestra 7.55-10pm	Nick Coote 01732 780310	A friendly string orchestra where anyone is welcome to join. There are no auditions.
City of London Symphonic Winds	John Andrews	(see notes)	John Andrews 07976 567 927	CLSW is a group of woodwind and brass players, based in and around London. We plan to rehearse from September 2005 in central London, performing a range of symphonic music as well as some lighter numbers.
COMA London Ensemble	Gregory Rose	Shoreditch Church, Shoreditch High Street, London E1 (nearest tubes: Liverpool St and Old St) 19.00 - 21.30 Tuesdays	Liz Herbert, 020 8806 3959	COMA is Contemporary Music Making for Amateurs. All instruments and all abilities welcome. Public concerts in London twice/year plus opportunities to take part in COMA National events - usually at contemporary music festivals in UK and Europe. Opportunities for composers.
The Corinthian Chamber Orchestra	Alan Hazeldine Paul Seddon	BMA House, Tavistock Square 19:00 Tuesdays	Paul Seddon 01223 313 846	Vacancies for double basses, and occasionally other players. High standard of players, post grade 8 or music college. Admission by audition or trial rehearsal / concert, depending on experience. Six concerts per year in St. James’s, Piccadilly.
Covent Garden Chamber Orchestra	Various: guest conductors Kathy Bamber	Four rehearsals 7-10pm before Saturday concerts in St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden	Ruth Newman	Very friendly and social chamber orchestra of a high standard that prides itself on working with up-and-coming conductors and soloists as well as established names.
Croydon Orchestral Ensemble	David Porter Margaret Hawken	Tuesday evenings 8.0pm to 10.0pm at St Mildred’s Church Hall,Bingham Road Addiscombe	Martin Jenner 020 8642 7200	We are a friendly orchestra rehearsing under an enthusiastic conductor. We play symphonies, selections from musicals and general light music. We welcome enquiries from all instruments but are particularly looking for string players.
The Croydon Symphony Orchestra	Darrell Davison Cathy Smart	Friday evenings 7.30 - 10.00’ish East Croydon United Reformed Church Hall, Addiscombe Grove, Croydon	Sue Cooper Claire Slade 02086885090	Friendly orchestra performing mainly romantic and later repertoire. 6 concerts a year in Fairfield Hall and 1 in Croydon Parish Church. A few vacancies, mainly 1st violins.
Crystal Palace Band	Michael Gray	Wednesday, 8-10pm at St John’s Church, St John’s Road in Penge	Band Secretary, Rachel Bleach 020 8776-2520	One of the few traditional Brass Bands remaining in London. We operate an open band rehearsal - just turn up - but if you need to borrow an instrument, it’s probably best to contact the Band Secretary.
Da Capo Concert Band	Ian Mitchell	8-10pm every Wednesday, Large Hall, All Saints Arts Centre, Oakleigh Road North, Whetstone, N20 9EZ	Caroline Harris 07760 243 400	Da Capo Concert Band celebrate their 10th anniversay in 2007. We are a friendly symphonic wind band that plays many of the stand wind band repertoire as well as exploring classic and contemporary symphonic band works with a view to entertaining and challenging both ourselves and our audiences. New members are always welcome, please contact us for further information.
Dartford Concert Band	Ian Harby Heather Kennedy	Wednesday 8-10pm St John Hall, Princes Road, Dartford	Don Valentine	Friendly band playing wide variety of music from Vaughn Williams to Shostakovitch, Lloyd Webber to Glenn Miller. 5 or 6 performances a year, mainly Saturday Evenings in N.W Kent. All wind and brass players welcome, see web site for more information
Dulwich Symphony Orchestra	Julian Williamson Paula Tysall	Tuesdays from 7.30 to 9.30 pm at Chatsworth Baptist Church Hall, Chatsworth Way, West Norwood, SE27	Frances Barrett 07773 381562	Strings and Brass especially welcome.
The Ealing Symphony Orchestra	John Gibbons Peter McGowan	Rehearsals Thursday evenings.	Richard Partridge 0208-567 4075	Playing enquiries always welcome.
Ealing Youth Orchestra	Leon Gee	Twyford School, Acton W3 9PP	Julia Walport 020-8788-9755	Vacancies for harp, tuba, viola and bass players
The East Hertfordshire Youth Orchestra	David Boarder	7-9pm on Friday evenings at Simon Balle School, Mangrove Road, Hertford (term times).	David Boarder - tel 01992 623489 fax 01992 643795	Hertfordshire County Music Service
East London Late Starters Orchestra		Saturday morning during school terms, Professional Development Centre, Mile End (near to Mile End tube)	Ray Muggeridge 020 722 68319	ELLSO is a teaching orchestra who welcome all grades of string players, including complete beginners. Ensembles are conducted by our various instrument tutors (Nick Coote, Piotr Jordan, Sinan Kadifachi, Anna Ritchie, David Hughes and Peter Rayner).
ELLSO Intermediate Performance EnsembleNEW	Nick Coote, Abigail Dance	Monday Evenings 7.15-9.30pm Bow Mission, Merchant Street E3 4LY	Andrew Sargent	This friendly and supportive string orchestra is for players who have been playing for at least a year or so and are looking to develop their ensemble playing skills. Ten week term with opportunities to perform at ELLSO concerts.
ELLSO Performance Orchestra	Leo Patsalides Jenny Lloyd	St Anne's, Limehouse London E14. Thursdays 7.15 – 9.30pm	Jenny Lloyd	A small friendly string and woodwind orchestra grade 6+, see website for current repertoire in rehearsal, term dates etc. New players most welcome!
Edgware Orchestra	Rachel Young	Queen Elizabeths School for Boys, Queens Road, Barnet, EN5 4DQ. Tuesday evenings 8-10	Harvey Mason 01923 256186. Stephen - 020 8950 9359	Vacancies for string and brass players
BBC Elstree Concert Band (non prof.)	Mike Crisp	Maida Vale Studios on Monday evenings at 7.30 pm.	Charley Brighton	Regular concerts and recordings are undertaken with an annual trip to France normally in August of each year.
Enfield Chamber Orchestra	Martin Smith Sarah Colley	Monday evenings during term time, 7:45pm - 9:45pm, Holy Trinity Church, The Broadway, Winchmore Hill	Edmund Booth	After over 60 years as the Enfield String Players, we're now Enfield Chamber Orchestra (ECho), in order to incorporate a regular body of wind players and become Enfield’s first chamber orchestra. To balance the new wind section, we want to recruit competent string players, particularly in the violin and viola sections. We are a very friendly orchestra who first and foremost enjoy playing great music. A minimum standard of Grade 7 is preferred, but a commitment to rehearsals and improving standards are the most important requirements.
Ernest Read Symphony Orchestra	Peter Stark John Crawford	Sunday afternoons in Central London venues 4/5 concerts a year. Some Saturday rehearsals and all-day workshops at weekends		We were founded in 1931and are probably best known for the children's concerts performed in The Royal Festival Hall and also for our appearance on Channel 4's programme ""Faking It"" We perform to a very high standard and many of our players have been through music college or have done music degrees at university. Our conductor, Peter Stark is senior conducting fellow at Trinity College of Music , London. Entry requirement is grade 8 plus for all sections.
Finchley Chamber Orchestra	David Lardi Anna Dryer-Beers	Thursday evenings at Trinity Church, Nether Street, Finchley N12	Rosemary Cook David Lardi, 02088815949	Five/six concerts a season. Sociable but musically demanding. Competent amateurs (grade 8 or semi-pro but the proof is in the playing) must attend rehearsals by arrangement before a commitment can be made on either side.
Forest Philharmonic	Mark Shanahan John Crawford	Monday evenings, Walthamstow	Nick Theobald	4 or 5 concerts annually in Walthamstow Assembly Hall, also Guildford, Hackney and Barbican Centre. A thriving and friendly orchestra achieving the highest standards.
Fulham Symphony Orchestra	Mark Dooley Juliet Hughes-Rees	Novotel, 1 Shortlands, London W6 (Hammersmith tube) Mondays 19.15-21.30	Marian Herlihy	We are a friendly and ambitious amateur orchestra rehearsing in Hammersmith, and performing 3 or 4 concerts a year in the Hammersmith and Fulham area. Please see our website for current vacancies.
The George Miles Light Orchestra	George Miles Angela Hunt	Thursday, Wellington Road, Enfield 8-10pm.	020-8360-2505	This orchestra gives about 10 charity concerts per year. Is very friendly and welcoming and needs ALL strings and some brass.
Great Ormond Street Chamber Orchestra	Daniel Cohen Philipp Bonhoeffer	Weston House, Great Ormond Street, WC1N (various evenings).	Nicolette Shaw	Currently have vacancies in all sections.
Greenwich Concert Band	Chris Lloyd	Thursday evening at 7.50pm in Holy Trinity Church, Southend Crescent, Eltham, London SE9		Formed in 1988, the Greenwich Concert Band provides excellent experience to musicians of all ages allowing them to continue their musical education and enjoyment long after their schooldays.
Harrow Symphony Orchestra	Michael Teychenné Robert Was	7:45 – 10:00 Thursdays at the Northwood Hills United Reformed Church, Joel Street, Northwood Hills, Middlesex HA6 1NL	Robin Smith 01923 266846	30 players of a broad age range. Urgently seeking new string players. Entry requirements – Grade VI and above. Three concerts a year consisting of classical and romantic works.
Havering Concert Orchestra	Bill Brooks Donna Schooling	Wednesdays during term times from 7.30pm – 9.30pm at Upminster Infants School, Upminster, Essex	Jane Chivers 01708 389138	A thriving orchestra, offering a warm welcome to new members. We perform a varied programme at the Queens Theatre Hornchurch 3 times a year. Vacancies for string and brass.
The Hayes Symphony Orchestra	Ben Ellin Lynn Cook	Wednesdays, 7.45-9.45pm, at the Emmanuel United Reformed Church, The Grove, West Wickham, BR4 9JS	Mrs. Helen Hopkins, Hon Secretary 0208-658 2466 David Thomas, 020 8851 5830	We perform three concerts per year, playing works by composers such as Beethoven and Brahms, and occasionally later works and world premiers by contemporary composers such as the conductor, Benjamin Ellin. New players will be warmly welcomed, especially string and brass players.
Helios Chamber Orchestra	Owen Leech Alicja Smietana	3 in the two-week run-up to a concert plus one on the afternoon of the concert	Owen Leech Barry Solomon	New North London-based orchestra (rehearsals in Belsize Park) with particular commitments to imaginative/adventurous programming & provision of concerto opportunities for gifted young soloists. Players: 'semi-pro' – i.e. gifted amateurs, music teachers, retired professionals... Repertoire: beyond the realms of the safe and familiar!
The Hendon String Orchestra	Roy Budden Adrian Charlesworth	Hendon Methodist Church, The Burroughs, Hendon NW4 (nearest tube Hendon Central). Very near Middlesex University. Tuesday evenings 8.00-10.00.	Roy Budden 0208-346 2080	All string players welcome.
Highbury Strings	Tom Whitehouse William Ellington	Highbury Roundhouse, 71 Ronalds Road, Islington, N5 1XB, Sunday 7 to 9 pm	William Ellington	Intermediate string players welcome. Simplified parts available.
Hillingdon Philharmonic Orchestra	Peter Williams Hilary Holloway	In Ickenham, three or four rehearsals before each concert	Lydia Holland 01895 252580	Three or four concerts a year plus a repertoire day. We play music from 17th to 20th century. New players welcome.
The Hounslow Symphony Orchestra	John K. Andrews Chris Aubrey	Mondays at the Green School, London Road, Isleworth at 19:15	Geoff Pinney
Kensington Chamber Orchestra	Various guests Derek Essen	Usually Tuesday evenings, St Clement & St James CE School, Penzance Place, W11		4 concerts a year. We have a few vacancies for quality violin & viola players, and we accept people on a recommendation + trial period.
Kensington Philharmonic Orchestra	Mark Fitz-Gerald Margaret Whittall	St Augustine’s Church, 117 Queen's Gate, London SW7 Monday evenings 7-9.30 p.m.	Ben Rayment 020 7837-8032	Three concerts a year in Chelsea Town Hall. A friendly well-established orchestra. Experienced violins, violas, cellos, double-basses welcome.
Kensington Symphony Orchestra	Russell Keable Alan Tuckwood	18:30 - 21:30 Thursdays		Very comprehensive web site
Kew Sinfonia	Orlando Jopling Gudrun Edwards	Usually 4 rehearsals, on Sundays afternoons/evenings and a Thursday evening	David Edwards, Chairman, 020 8876 9318	Friendly and enthusiastic orchestra for professionals and talented amateurs. 3 concerts a year at St Anne's Church, Kew Green.
Kew Wind Orchestra	Spencer Down Catherine Bromley	Thursdays 7:45 - 10:00pm, Richmond	Enquiries: 0208 876 2192	NCBF gold-award winning band with a wide repertoire from contemporary works for symphonic wind ensemble through to swing and lighter music. Currently seeking lead trumpet, french horns,bassoons and lower brass, grade 8+ standard. Other enquiries always welcome.
Kingston Chamber Orchestra	Andy Meyers Charles Knights	Wednesday evenings at 7:30 at St John's School, Portland Road, Kingston-Upon-Thames, Surrey KT1 2SG	Enquiries through website please	The Kingston Chamber Orchestra is an amateur orchestra of high standard, based in Kingston, Surrey, UK. Our members are a mixture of professionals, teachers, semi-professionals and keen amateurs. We rehearse weekly during term-time and perform at least three concerts per year. For details see www.kcomusic.org
Kingston Philharmonia	Levon Parikian Clare Howick	7.45pm to 10 pm Fridays, at St.Nicholas Church Hall, Summer Road, Thames Ditton, Surrey.	Chris Pocock: (020)89773851	Strings needed!
Lambeth Orchestra	Chris Fifield Jillian Warburton	Christchurch, Brixton Road, SE1. 19:00 Thursdays		Vacancies for violas & basses.
Lambeth Wind OrchestraNEW		Thursdays 7.45 at St. Paul's Church Hall, Herne Hill, SE24	Secretary	We are a new band in the Lambeth/Herne Hill area. We are currently looking for a tenor saxophone, trumpets, a trombone and tubas. No auditions.
The Learning Orchestra	David Evans	Thursday evenings (term time) at Lancing Street, Euston, London NW1, 6.30pm-9pm.	Enquiries through website please	Violins and violas particularly needed - Grade 5 (approx) min. Two concerts a year.
Lewisham Concert Band	Leslie Lake	Most Sundays, 10-45 am to 12.45 pm. Prenderghast School, Hilly Fields, off Adelaide Avenue, London, SE4. Near Ladywell Station and Crofton Park Stations.	John Fisher 07906 966 159.	Friendly band, good standard, rehearses and performs private and public concerts all year round in London and South East. Fantastic range of music in band library. Admission by committee vetting and audition. Grade 8 plus. Founded 1967, Radio 2 & 3 broadcasts, won T.V. Times National Band contest. For further details check our website address. To come to a trial rehearsal contact us via our email address on the left
The Linden Wind Orchestra	Roger Philips Roger Philips	Tuesdays at St Mark’s Church, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 4DT	Roger Phillips
The London Amateur Symphony Orchestra	Daniel Cohen	Tuesday evenings from work (1800-2030)	Fiona Horrox	A new orchestra is being formed. Would you like to develop your orchestral playing directed by a post-graduate student from the Royal Academy of Music – a powerful, dynamic experience? All enquiries welcome. Venue likely to be in the Tottenham Court Road vicinity
London Charity Orchestra	William Carslake Simon Kodurand	Mondays 7.00-9.30; Chelsea	Stephen Bonney	Performs at St John’s Smith Square in aid of charity. High standard orchestra of music students/graduates and strong amateur players. New players welcome (must be Grade 8+) in all departments.
London Contemporary Chamber Orchestra	Alan Taylor	Saturdays in Herne Hill, SE24	Alan Taylor	A chamber orchestra rehearsing and performing contemporary music, working with composers on the development of their pieces. Rehearsals and workshops every couple of months. Looking for more string players.
London Gay Symphony Orchestra	Simon Bowler	Sunday evenings, Central London	Nicole Aebi-Moyo	The London Gay Symphony Orchestra is the only lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender orchestra in the UK. We welcome anyone whatever their sexuality. We perform 4 or 5 concerts a year in a friendly and welcoming environment. We pride ourselves on being a dynamic, player-led orchestra with lots of innovative ideas.
London Gypsy Orchestra	Gundula Gruen Gundula Gruen	Thursday evenings, Rosemary Works School, Branch Place, London N1.	Gundula 020-7348 3948	An amateur group of intermediate and advanced players of any instrument who have a passion for Eastern European Gypsy and folk music. New members always welcome!
The London International Orchestra	Toby Purser Julia Dougiallo	The Free Church, Hampstead Garden Suburb, Central Square, London NW11, Wednesday evenings, 7.30-10.00	07818 400516 or Tom Radice (020 8455 1025)	The London International Orchestra (formerly the North West London Orchestra) was founded in 1986 and is an orchestra with a difference, raising £000 for charity by performing popular classics to professional standards before enthusiastic audiences. Many of its members are teachers and retired professionals. We particularly welcome good players who can add strength and brilliance to our already powerful string sections. Vacancies for woodwind and brass occur from time to time: for details and term dates please enquire.
London Lawyers' Symphony Orchestra	Matthew Willis/Ben Pope Sylvia Kapp	7.00-9.30pm Tuesdays, Welsh Baptist Chapel, Eastcastle St, W1 (nr. Oxford Circus)	Sean Gibbons 020 7809 2613	The standard is Grade 8+. The orchestra is open to non-lawyers as well as members of the legal profession. No auditions are necessary for singers and string players. Some wind and brass vacancies may also be available. There is an affiliated choir, rehearsing on Thursday evenings. The choir and orchestra perform 4-5 concerts per year. 2007-2008 venues include St James's Piccadilly, Christ Church Spitalfields and LSO St Lukes.
The London Medical Orchestra	Michael Axtell Tina Bowles	The Highbury Roundhouse Community Centre 71 Ronalds Road, London N5 1XB Tuesdays at 7.15pm	Michael Axtell 01322-553591 Adrian Garfoot - 07732 407 310, weekends 01553774586	No medical connection necessary, no auditions and student rates per term. Concerts are in aid of medical charities held three times a year. String players always welcome.
London Orpheus Philharmonic Orchestra	Guest conductors Clare Wheeler	3 weeks before a concert at St Botolph's, Aldgate High Street, London, EC3N 1AB	Rosalind Porter	40 strong orchestra of professionals, semi-pros, students and experienced amateurs of Grade 8 plus. All donate time to raise money for various charities through concerts of varied repertoire at their home of St Botolph's Aldgate.
The London Phoenix Orchestra	Levon Parikian Catherine Lindley	Monday 6.35-8.45pm at St Thomas More School, Cadogan Street, London	Nigel Dant 01252 557329 (day) 0118 986 8784 (eve) Alison Bowyer, General Manager 07740 946939	Run by The Insurance Orchestral Society. Currently looking for Double Bass, Viola, Trumpet and Trombone players.
The London Repertoire Orchestra	Francis Griffin	7:00 to 9:30 Wednesday evenings in at St Joseph’s Church Hall, Lamb’s Passage, EC1Y 8LE	Francis Griffin	The orchestra plays different music each week, and would welcome string players and has vacancies for wind deputies and extras.
London Saxophone ChoirNEW	Roger Cawkwell	2nd and 4th Friday of every month in Herne Hill, SE24	Titia Rijpma and Sharon Moloney 07855 833915	A group for saxophones only, open to all abilities without audition. We play music written in a wide range of styles and from many different eras, from baroque to modern and jazz, many of which have been specially arranged by our conductor, Roger Cawkwell.
The London Shostakovich Orchestra	Christopher Cox Jonathan Lee	Full day, the weekend in advance of the concert, followed by an afternoon rehearsal on the concert day. St Cyprian’s Church, Glentworth Street NW1.	Martin Watts	Currently working through a complete cycle of Shostakovich symphonies. Contact via the web site.
Mary Ward Orchestra NEW	Nick Coote	Friday 8.30pm-10pm Mary Ward Centre, 42 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AQ	Nick Coote	A String Orchestra which meets at the Mary Ward Centre as part of the Mary Ward String Workshop. Friendly group, short performance at end of term but also lots of sight reading. Minimum Grade 5.
Meridian Sinfonia	Ben Rous	Sundays at 7-9pm at St Nicholas Church, Deptford Green, London SE8 3DQ.	Ben Rous (07905 381931) Mike Jefferson (0207 3680115)	The Meridian Sinfonia is a newly formed orchestra, which will begin rehearsing in New Year 2004. We are looking for players of around grade 8 standard (and above), and currently have vacancies in most sections. Please get in touch with Ben or Mike if you are interested in joining.
Morley Chamber Orchestra	Charles Peebles Catherine Clarke	Morley College, 61 Westminster Bridge Rd, SE1, near Lambeth North Tube or Waterloo. Thursday Evenings 19.00 to 21.30.	Music Secretary 020 7450 1838	High standard, medium sized repertoire orchestra; with a distinguished pedigree (previous conductors include Holst and Tippett). Offers a unique opportunity for skilled instrumentalists to significantly broaden their knowledge of the rich smaller orchestral literature with its main focus on broadening players’ sight reading techniques and musicianship. Will explore a wide variety of compositions by following an in depth fortnightly rotation of challenging works from the 18th century to modern times. Vacancies for Grade 8+ violins and violas and basses, and enquiries always welcome from wind players. Occasional concerts.
Morley College Conductors' Orchestra	Paul Sarcich (tutor) Derek West	2-5 Saturdays term time. At Morley College, 61 Westminster Bridge Rd. SE1 7HT. Underground: Lambeth North	Tom Whitehouse 02072516339 07702841896	This orchestra is conducted by different trainee conductors. From the Morley Conducting Course and plays different pieces each week. E.g. An overture and a symphony. It's free, friendly, great sight-reading practice; no pressure on players. Great experience of playing excellent works straight through. Just turn up any week. Strings always needed. Brass and woodwind please phone to check.
The Mornington Sinfonia	Brian Smith	Thursday 7.45 - 9.45 pm in the Church Hall of Our Lady Help of Christians on the corner of Lady Margarets Road and Falklands Road, NW5	Nigel Brockmann 02089696469	We would welcome all string and brass players and some woodwind players. Our standard is particularly suitable for intermediate players. No audition required - if you like us, we'll like you!
The Nelson Orchestra	Adam Pounds David Richmond	19:30 Thursday
New Redbridge Wind Orchestra	Miles Harwood	Thursdays from 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. at John Savage Centre, Fencepiece Road, Barkingside, Ilford, Essex IG6 2LJ	Miles Harwood 02085054329	A community wind band established in 1996. New members welcome (minimum standard Grade VI), especially tenor saxophones, trombones and tubas.
North London Morning Orchestra	Harry Susans Betty Bliss	Every Wednesday morning from 10.00-12.00am at The Scout Hut - opposite The Jolly Farmers pub, Slades Hill Enfield	Eric Savage 020 8367 3169 Joyce Beltram 020-84461729	A friendly orchestra which plays a wide range of light and classical music simply for pleasure.
The North London Philharmonia	Ron Rappoport Robert Masarachi	Tuesday eves, Golders Green Parish Church, North End Rd. London NW11	Ron Rappoport 020 8346-8645
The North London Symphony Orchestra	David Lardi Tina Bowles	United Reformed Church, Ferme Park Road/Weston Park, London N8 Mondays 7.30-10.00pm	Contact for new members	Friendly but hard-working orchestra giving five concerts a year in Palmers Green, North London. Vacancies exist in some sections and the orchestra also operates deputy and waiting lists. View our website for more information including concerts planned for the current season
The North West London Orchestra	Toby Purser Julia Dougiallo	Golders Green, London NW11, Wednesday evenings, 7.30-10.00	07818 400516 or Tom Radice (020 8455 1025)	For information, including new venue, see entry for the London International Orchestra
Northwood Volunteer Band	Steve Brinkworth	Mon & Wed evening 8 – 10pm at Northwood Headquarters, Sandy Lane	Steve Brinkworth Tel: 01923 833190	We are a friendly, sociable band who enjoy our music making and perform locally. Our repertoire is a broad mixture of light classical, film music and big band. All standards of players are welcome and instruments can be loaned free of charge. All rehearsals are free, with free refreshments so come and give us a try!
Norwood Wind EnsembleNEW	Brian Cox	Sunday afternoon, once a month in Upper Norwood SE19	Sarah Prior	An adult wind band that plays traditional wind band repertoire as well as some lighter music. Players of a good standard welcome. Please contact us for current vacancies.
Orchestra of the City	Benjamin Bayl Tom Evans	Usually Tuesday evenings 7pm, St Augustine's, Queensgate, SW7	General Enquiries	6 concerts per year/2 per term at venues such as St. John’s, Smith Square. For auditions, contact the Membership Secretary. High standard – music graduates preferred
The Orpington Symphony Orchestra	Raymond Lewis	Thursdays 7.30pm-9.30pm during term time at The Church of Unity, Rye Crescent.	Mrs L U Jones	String players required, also vacancies in some wind sections
Philharmonia Britannica	Peter Fender Brian Lloyd Wilson	Meet for just 1 to 3 rehearsals close to each concert	Peter Fender	Looking to interest the reluctant concert goer by working with different art forms and removing some of the highbrow nature of classical concerts. Players of good standard sought. Amateurs, students. We have pro conductor and leader of each string section. Please see website for more details. We've just formed so get in there right from the start!
Phoenix Concert Band	Chris McGinity	Thursdays 20:00 to 22:00 Hertswood School Lower Site, Cowley Hill, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire	Chris McGinity 020 8364-9862 or 07901-972855	The Phoenix Concert Band aims to set high standards in its performances, giving playing opportunities to musicians at the upper end of ability. Please contact us if you're around Grade 8 standard, or otherwise well qualified.
The Portobello Orchestra	Anthony Weeden Madeleine Easton	Lancaster Road Methodist Church, London W11 on Mondays 19:30- 21:30.	Leo Dossett 020 8960 2833	String & brass players required
The Redhill Sinfonia	Pavel Kotla Andrew MacDonald	Monday evenings at 7:30 at Holy Trinity Church, Carlton Road, Redhill		To join the orchestra, your playing needs to be of a minimum grade 8 standard for all instruments. You must have relevant experience. We do not currently have any vacancies for woodwind players, but operate a waiting list where appropriate.
The Rehearsal Orchestra	Levon Parikian Edmund Reid	Weekend courses in London and Manchester; annual week-long course at the Edinburgh Festival	Anne-Marie Norman 020 7820 9994	Not a regular weekly orchestra, nor strictly amateur, but has for many years rehearsed and played in London as well as around the country
The Richmond Orchestra	Philip Hesketh Gillian Findlay	7:30 - 10:00 p.m. Wednesday, usually at Shene School, Park Avenue SW14
Roding Players Orchestra	Miles Harwood Susan McSweeney	Monday evenings 7.30 - 9.15 p.m., at Roding Valley School, Brook Road, Loughton, Essex	Miles Harwood 02085054329	Three concerts annually. Vacancies for strings, brass, percussion
The Roehampton Orchestra		Wednesday afternoons, 1.30-3.30 in term time, at Roehampton University SW15	020 8392 3432	We are a friendly amateur orchestra playing a wide variety of repertoire. We are currently seeking players of all instruments.
The Royal Air Forces Association Presidents Band	Peter Stockdale	RAF Uxbridge, Mondays 7.30 to 9.30	Brian Hoare 01753 654113 Karen Sutton 01895-811391 Dave Thompson 01895-464916	Vacancy for an experienced solo/lead flute player. We will also consider other instrumentalists of Grade 6 and above.
The Royal Holloway Symphony Orchestra	Robert Max / Levon Parikian	Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham	Vanessa Gordon 01784 443853	Openings for young instrumentalists on certain instruments; please enquire by email.
Royal Orchestral Society for Amateur Musicians	Stuart Stratford Charlotte Scott	Mondays 7.00 - 9.30pm. Quintin Kynaston School, St John's Wood NW8	Janet Farrell (Hon. Secretary) Susie Best (Hon. Treasurer)	An independent, friendly amateur orchestra, established in 1872! Three concerts per year. A lively mix of amateur players and music students enjoy a rich and varied repertoire. New players are most welcome (no auditions). Contact us or see our website for more information
Saint Bartholomew’s Orchestra	Bernard Jupp Jimmie Brown	St Bartholomew's Church Hall, Ellison Road, Streatham, London, SW16, Every Monday, 8 to 10 pm	Bernard Jupp 020 8764 7523 Jill Dudman 020 8670 5456	Now in 32nd year - mostly classical, occasional first-performances - vacancies for string players- 3 concerts a year - no formal auditions - easy access, easy parking, ideal rehearsal facilities - subscriptions £20 a year.
Orchestra of St Paul’s Covent Garden	Ben Palmer	One or two in the week before, and on the day	Ben Palmer
The Salomon Orchestra	Various guest conductors Anna Ritchie	Rehearsals are held 2-3 weeks before each concert
Saturday Symphony	Peter Lipari		Graham Elliott 020 8645 9183	A one day orchestra session which seeks to attract experienced and accomplished amateurs and music students.
Sinfonia Tamesa	Jason Lai Michelle Wright	3 concerts a year, Wednesday evening rehearsals for 2 months prior to each. South Bank (Waterloo)	Ursula Sagar 07903 769221	Very high standard, young and vibrant symphony orchestra comprising semi-professionals, music graduates and skilled amateurs (grade 8+), based in Waterloo. We pride ourselves not only on our highly polished performances but also our extremely friendly ethos. 3 concerts a year, plus an exciting variety of projects and collaborations with top upcoming soloists, new composers and (summer 08) celebrity training sessions for upcoming BBC series ‘Maestro’ (please apply April 08). New players, particularly strings, welcome on a trial basis - no auditions required.
The Slough Philharmonic Orchestra	David Wilson Marilyn Vanryne	Orchestra: Wednesdays 7:30 to 9:45 Choir: Mondays 7:30 to 9:30 Burnham Grammar School, Hogfair Lane, Burnham SL1 7HG	Orchestra: Keith Pocock 01494 524797 Choir:-Michael du Pre 01628-631119	5 concerts per year. Season is September to May.
South London Concert Band	Tony Ryan	Tuesdays 1930 to 2130 (term-time) St Paul's Church, Welham Road, Streatham	Helena Goldberg Sue Redsull	Friendly group of brass and woodwind players playing at a variety of venues and events during the year
South London String Orchestra	Julian Williamson Jim Huggon	Chatsworth Baptist Church, Chatsworth Way, (Near Tulse Hill) SE27. Friday Mornings, 10.30 to 12.30	Elizabeth Rang 020 8947-7603	No audition are held and retired professionals as well as keen improvers are equally happy! We play Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th century music, and give a concert each term. We are a friendly group and would be very pleased to see any new members.
Southgate Symphony Orchestra	Alex Eadon Angela Hunt	10 per season at Walker School, Waterfall Road, Southgate, London, N14 7JN. All Wednesdays between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.	Bernard Frankel (Secretary)	Has provided opportunities for people to hear and make music since 1961. The Orchestra welcomes all musicians of Grade 6 or above. Each season is tied in with school terms and culminates in a live concert at different venues around Enfield, often featuring concerti played by guest soloists.
The Southwark Concert Band	Bob Bridges	Thursdays, 7-45pm to 10pm, at the United Church, Herne Hill, SE24	Laura Sandford	A lively and growing concert band, performing two major concerts a year, and numerous outdoor and charitable events. Entry without audition, though subject to places being available
Southwark Consorts of Winds		Wednesdays in Herne Hill, SE24	Alan Taylor	A group of 3 wind chamber ensembles, playing the standard repertoire for groups such as double wind quintets and clarinet choirs, plus arrangements of early music and newly composed music. The ensembles perform together.
The Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra	Jonathan Butcher Diana Cummings	Friday evenings, 7.30-9.45, at St. Andrew’s School, Grange Road, Leatherhead
Sutton Symphony Orchestra	Nigel Stephens	Tuesday evenings at The Parochial Rooms, Cheam, 7.30 to 9.30 pm	Nigel Stephens 020 8660 2473 Sue White 0208 644 4055	If you have any orchestral experience please come and try us out on Tuesday evening.
Symphonic Wind Orchestra of North London (SWON)	Grace Rossiter	Tuesdays during term time. 7.30pm at Martin Junior School, Plane Tree Walk, East Finchley N2 9JP	Secretary Caroline Egen 020 8340 2706	An enthusiastic and friendly wind orchestra. We welcome new players especially brass, percussion and lower woodwind. We perform three concerts a year and are planning a Belgian tour in 2007.
Thames Philharmonia	Byung-Yun Yu Naoko Miyamoto	Monday evenings 7.30 in Kingston	Byung-Yun Yu 020 8337 1150 John Morrison 020 8940 0444	Four concerts a year, in St John’s Smith Square and locally. We aim for high-quality performances, with professional/semi-professional soloists. New grade 8+ string players welcome, especially viola, cello and bass. Occasional other vacancies. See our website for all details.
Thameside Clarinet Choir	Christopher Hooker	St John's Church, New Malden, Kingston, Surrey / Thursdays 8.00-10.00	Christopher Hooker	Fully subscribed Clarinet Choir from Eb to contrabass Meets every Thursday in South West London. Extensive (300+) library. Holds twice yearly Playing Days with invited guest players. See website for more details
Three Rivers Chamber Orchestra	John K. Andrews Genny Mepham	St. Mary's Church, Rickmansworth, Herts	Theresa Cory Genny Mepham	The Three Rivers Chamber Orchestra is an amateur orchestra of high standard, based in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire presenting 2 - 3 concerts a year and having fun sight-reading during the odd repertoire day. We welcome new players, especially strings, brass and percussion. Our short preparation periods ( 3 - 4 weeks before the concert) will be particularly attractive to music students or those who are unable to commit to regular weekly rehearsals.
The Trinity Orchestra	Paul Watkins Sally Telling	Thursday, Friday & Friday in two weeks preceding concert, Trinity Church, Harrow	Alan Thomas	Looking for a few more string players esp. cellists. Grade VIII is the minimum standard. Six concerts plus one or two big choral events a year. Aim for high quality performances with our musical director and regular guest conductors.
Tudor Orchestra	Owen Leech Keith Ramsell	Monday night, Trinity Church Centre, Nether Street N12	Ginnie 020 8445 8724 Adrian	Friendly community orchestra playing classical and romantic works - more interesting than most - now constituted as charitable company limited by guarantee, welcomes new players. Especially need violas, and would like another bassoon, horn, timpanist and trombone (or deputy for concerts). Never too many violins, so visitors also welcome for concerts. Happy to work with other orchestras on mutual filling in of parts for concerts, and happy to assist other orchestras reconstitute as charities.
U3A Orchestra	Leonard Davis	Goldsmiths College, New Cross, London SE14 every fortnight starting on 21 September. 2pm to 5pm.	Leonard Davis 0208 464 8238	String orchestra for amateur players in the over-50 group who are now retired.
The Vitalis Sinfonia	Sinead Hayes / Neal Farwell	Meet on a monthly basis Saturdays from 2 - 6pm in South Kensington & Notting Hill, London	Sinead Hayes 07719691833	We aim to give young soloists a chance to play concertos/solo pieces with orchestra and explore the orchestral repertoire. Strings particularly welcome.
The Wandsworth Symphony Orchestra	Keith Stent Margaret Whittal	Wednesday 7:15 - 9:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Church, Putney Bridge	Ruth Baber - 0208-879 0062 (fixer)	Three concerts per year
Watford Symphony Orchestra	Edward Kay Rebecca Boyle	Generally Thursday evenings - but not every week	Vicky Vandy, Secretary	A new orchestra aiming to provide good standard amateurs with an opportunity to make classical music in a friendly environment. Three/four concerts a year. Recruiting all strings in Grade VIII range.
West London Sinfonia	Philip Hesketh Philippa Barton	Tuesdays 7 - 10 at Haven Green Baptist Church Hall, Haven Green W5	Moira Cyriax, (020) 8997 3540	Ambitious & friendly orchestra based in Ealing who perform 6 concerts per year.. Players Grade 8+ welcome. We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you play the violin, cello or double bass. Please see our website for further details.
The Westminster Philharmonic Orchestra	Jonathan Butcher Jillian Warburton	Usually Sundays, Indian YMCA, Fitzroy Street	Paul Munro 020 8423 5245	New members welcome, viola, double bass and trombone particularly welcome
The Whitehall Orchestra	Michael Nebe Nathaniel Vallois	Thursdays 6.45 - 9.00pm at the DTI, 1-19 Victoria Street, SW1.	Carla Finesilver	A large orchestra performing a varied repertoire including many large-scale symphonic works. 3 or more performances per year. Vacancies for double basses and lower brass; for all other instruments please enquire. Minimum standard Grade 6 for strings, Grade 8 for woodwind, with admission by trial rehearsal. Full sections run a waiting/deps/extras list.
The Wimbledon Symphony Orchestra	Robin Browning Charlotte Edwards	Tuesday evenings at Bishop Gilpin School, Lake Road, Wimbledon.		Concerts - 4 per annum at St. Matthew’s Church, SW20. Good string players welcome
The Winchmore String Orchestra	Rachael Young Chris Gundry	Thursdays 7:45pm - 9:45pm at Winchmore Hill Methodist Church, Green Lanes N13 4EP	Joan Bayliss
The Windsor & Maidenhead Symphony Orchestra	Robert Roscoe Liz Greeley	Every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.40pm, Dolphin School, Hurst, near Twyford, Berks	Marcus Butler -
The Woodford Symphony Orchestra	Philip Norman Keith Gurry	Thursday evening from 7.45-9.45 at Roding Valley High School, Alderton Hill, Loughton	Philip Norman 0208-519 6491

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